The Swiss practice L3P Architekten has recently realised these two homogenous, single-occupancy detached houses located in the picturesque countryside setting of Oberweningen, Switzerland. The monolithic, asymmetrical structures have been developed as a reinterpretation of a simple detached house, which has been split in two and as a result, two ‘polygonal bodies were formed in which the mutual proximity becomes a quality.’

‘Despite the small size of the parcel of land, two single-occupancy detached houses have been developed in a countryside setting taking a new path in reference to volumetry and spacial definitions. The basic type of detached house has been split, the work being akin to a sculpturer’s work. The mirroring of water and façade in the water basin hints at a clear vision within these rooms, which are among themselves but without direct insight to each other – a special place with strong vibrancy and intimacy.’

‘The position in the parcel of land also moulds the inner area. An elaborately-devised subdivision arranges the rooms in a split-level system and allows the hillside characteristics to also be experienced in the building itself. While the inner walls are masoned and smoothly plastered, the exposed concrete outer walls, the black polished and jointless floor and large window fronts add to a cool technical conclusion. Elaborate skylights allow an atmosphere of light to develop which features a spiritual force and vibrancy. ‘

‘The materialization of the facade and the roof are conspicuous. Together with the artist Thomas Sonderegger, we experimented with a surface of galvanised steel. We were able to fabricate a sheet with a unique and vital expression which was deployed for a first time on the façade and in the roof area. The design added to a monolithic overall picture in which an association to a sculpturer’s work is given once again.’